Regulation of Virus Replication and T Cell Homeostasis by N 6 -Methyladenosine

Abstract

RNA modifications are abundant in eukaryotes, bacteria, and archaea. N 6 -methyladenosine (m 6 A), a type of RNA modification mainly found in messenger RNA (mRNA), has significant effects on the metabolism and function of mRNAs. This modification is governed by three types of proteins, namely methyltransferases as “writers”, demethylases as “erasers”, and specific m 6 A-binding proteins (YTHDF1-3) as “readers”. Further, it is important for the regulation of cell fate and has a critical function in many biological processes including virus replication, stem cell differentiation, and cancer development, and exerts its effect by controlling gene expression. Herein, we summarize recent advances in research on m 6 A in virus replication and T cell regulation, which is a rapidly emerging field that will facilitate the development of antiviral therapies and the study of innate immunity.